Critics believed Apple would be digging its own grave with the launch of super-premium iPhones that feature 4-digit price tags. They were proven wrong that time but things are a little different here. As several smartphone manufacturers aim to launch 5G-capable devices in 2019, a new report claims that the California-based giant will be releasing its first 5G iPhone in 2020. Could this have a negative effect on sales as customers would want to experience what it is like to try the latest and greatest wireless connectivity standard? Let us find out.
Customers Will Not Immediately Witness Blazing-Fast 5G Speeds in 2019 – Apple Expected to Rely on Intel for Its Modems
According to a source that is familiar with Apple’s plans, Fast Company has stated that the manufacturer is expected to rely on Intel for its XMM 8161 5G-capable modems. The XMM 8060 is expected to be a transition component that will most likely be used to test 5G connectivity in an iPhone, according to sources close to the matter. The XMM 8161 is expected to be made on the 10nm architecture, resulting in better speeds and efficiency at the same time.
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Apple has reportedly been displeased with the progress of Intel when it comes to cellular modems. As most of you might be aware, heat dissipation with 5G modems is a big problem, with Intel failing to find a workaround. Apple might be upset about the fact that the chip giant has been slow at fixing these problems.
The processor manufacturer might make it up with the use of the XMM 8161 5G modems for iPhones in 2020, but it is too early to tell at this stage. Apple might also introduce MediaTek into the fold, but there was no mention of Qualcomm, suggesting that the business relationship between the latter and the iPhone maker is finished.
Apple has been slow to adopt baseband standards, with 4G LTE connectivity arriving late for the iPhone 5 back in 2012. The very first iPhone did not provide support for 3G connectivity either. Apple might be launching a 5G-capable iPhone this late as customers who transition to 5G-capable devices in 2019 are not going to see a massive breakthrough in download and upload speeds.
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This is because 5G infrastructure requires a different set of deployments to be handled. It is most likely that developed markets in the world will properly adopt the use of 5G devices in 2020, allowing Apple to capitalize on the market at the right moment. However Android smartphone manufacturers could provide a ‘future proofing’ option for customers who know they will be able to experience 5G connectivity later down the road.
Do you think this move from Apple, if true, might end up being deleterious for iPhone sales in the future? Tell us your thoughts down in the comments.
Source: Fast Company
